Guide de l'étudiant avant le départ

Oxford experiences a temperate maritime climate with cool summers and mild winters, so be prepared for unpredictable weather conditions. It can be quite chilly and rainy, especially in the evenings, so bring a warm coat or waterproof jacket. Ensure your clothing is appropriate for school; think about layering with lightweight, comfortable clothing that suits a school environment. Remember that buildings in the UK often have central heating, so you might need lighter clothing indoors.

Be sure to bring a couple of nice outfits, too. From dances on campus to attending theatres, you will want to have some formal attire for special occasions.

Please mind our school dress code and bring clothes that demonstrate consideration for a diverse international school community of students and teachers.

You can find toiletries just about anywhere you go, but when it comes to your favourite face wash or conditioner, it is always best to come prepared just in case you cannot find the same products in the UK. Eventually, you will find something local that works for you, but for the first few months, you will be happy you have something from home to incorporate into your daily routine.

Of course, when you are going to school, you will accumulate plenty of books throughout the year. But sometimes, you will want a break from studying and other required reading. When that time comes, you will be glad to have a few easy reads. It will also be handy during your travels when you can use extra reading material to pass the time on the plane or train.

We are not going to sugarcoat it: homesickness while studying abroad can get real. Oftentimes, it will be the little things related to your culture, like your favourite foods, that will make you miss home the most. Tuck away some of your favourite snack food for those homesick days. Plus, a great way to start a connection with your new roommate is to offer them something delicious to eat!

It is obvious that while living abroad, you will need to have your passport with you, but some other key documents to have around include your visa, school ID, and flight tickets. You should also keep copies of important details like flight information, school documents, or identification numbers. When it comes to legal documents, nobody ever regrets being over prepared. Keep all your important documents in your carry-on bag when traveling! Just remember to store your information in a safe place once you arrive on campus.

While WhatsApp, Skype, and Instagram are all great ways to stay in touch with people you care about, there is something special about a handwritten letter. You never know if you will want to write to your family back home or start sending postcards. On a day when you are feeling homesick, there is always something comforting about reading a letter in a loved one’s handwriting.

We recommend having some cash when you travel and to get you through your first week of school. There are Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) around the local area and in Oxford, where you can withdraw cash from major debit/credit cards.

If you want to open a UK bank account, this is certainly possible. Many banks, such as Barclays or HSBC, are more than willing to help students set up accounts. To apply, you’ll need to provide a copy of your visa, passport, and a letter from the school confirming your address. There are also several other local banks available that can assist you.

Even if you like to take notes by hand, you won’t be able to do all of your studying without a computer handy. But what good is having a laptop if you forget your charger at home? Take it from your fellow students of the world: running out to buy a new device charger is pricey and annoying in every country, so remember to bring yours with you along with an adaptor.